Catamenial receptacle



Nov. 17, 1964 M. l. BAKUNIN CATAMENIAL RECEPTACLE Filed April 5, 1962 INVENTOR. Maurice .l. Ba kun n United States Patent 3,157,180 CATAMENIAL RECEPTACLE Maurice l. Balrunin, 881 Lafayette St, Eridgeport, Conn.

' Filed Apr. 3, 1962, :22. No. 184,746

12 (Ilahns. (Cl. 128-285) This invention rel-ates to receptacle and applicator devices of the type intended to be used in the vaginal cavity or canal.

Heretofore a number of devices intended for the above purpose have been proposed and produced. While these have in some measure been successful, they were subject to a number of drawbacks. For one thing, they caused varying degrees of discomfort. Also, the problem of insertion and retention, as well as replacement, was not always fully or successfully solved. Many prior devices also lacked the convenience necessary to render them practical.

The above disadvantages and drawbacks of prior devices are largely overcome by the present invention, and one object of the invention is to provide a novel and improved catamenial receptacle which is especially comfortable when in use, and not likely to chafe or cause irritation.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved receptacle as above set forth, which is safe, effective and reliable in operation whereby there is minimized to the greatest possible extent the likelihood of leakage, rupture or dislodgernent.

A further object of the invention is to provide an improved catamenial receptacle as characterized, which may be easily and quickly inserted and also removed.

An additional object is to provide a novel receptacle device in accordance with the foregoing, which is of simple and economical construction whereby it is practical to produce as a throw-away or single-use article.

A feature of the invention resides in the provision of an improved receptacle device of the kind outlined, which is extremely compact and requires but little space, to the end that several may be readily carried in even a small pocketbook or handbag.

A further object or" the invention is to provide an im proved applicator for use in the vaginal canal, to apply medicaments and the like over a period of time.

Another feature of the invention resides in the provision of a novel self-conforming receptacle and applicator which readily conforms to the shape of the vaginal canal in which it is inserted.

An additional feature resides in the provision of an improved receptacle and applicator as above set forth, which includes a self-contained inserter, thus eliminating the necessity for separate devices to perform this function.

Still another feature of the invention resides in the provision of an improved collapsible receptacle and applicator as characterized, which is sufficiently small and compact when collapsed to permit its insertion and withdrawal without the likelihood of injury to the hymen, especially in younger females.

Other features and advantages will hereinafter appear.

In the drawings accompanying this specification, wherein similar characters or" reference are used to designate like parts of components, the figures are listed as follows:

FIGURE 1 is a vertical sectional view of an abdominal portion, showing as one embodiment of the invention an improved catamenial receptacle in use, in the vaginal canal.

FIG. 2 is an axial sectional view of the receptacle device per se. I

FIG. 3 is a transverse sectional view taken on the line 33 of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a view like that of FIG. 2 but illustrating another embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a transverse section taken on the line 55 of FIG. 4.

Referring first to FIGS. 1-3 there is illustrated an anatomical abdominal section showing a human uterus or womb 10 having a mouth portion 12, a vaginal canal or passage 14 communicating with the womb, and an external termination chamber 16.

By the present invention there is provided a novel and improved device comprising a catamenial receptacle or cup 18 which is adapted to be lodged in the vaginal canal 14- and retained therein for specified periods of time, for the purpose of intercepting and holding the menstrual fluids or discharges, said device having desirable features and advantages. The receptacle of the invention is especially arranged to provide the minimum of discomfort, chafing or irritation when in use, while at the same time constituting a safe and effective means for intercepting and holding the periodic menstrual discharge.

The device of the invention may advantageously func tion as an applicator for medicaments and the like. For this purpose the walls are provided with an absorbent coating (as indicated by the letter C in FIG. 4) of cotton cloth or fibers, etc. The coating C is preferably treated with the medicament, and may also have a deodorizer, a clotting agent, fragrant substances or the like as considered desirable for feminine hygiene or fastidious reasons. Or, the coating may be devoid of treating substances, and merely serve as an absorbent means.

The device is essentially self-conforming, even with the self-contained inserter (described shortly), and has small girth when collapsed, to minimize injury in cases where the hymen exists. Moreover, in accordance with the invention, the insertion, removal and disposal of the device may be easily accomplished by the user at such times which are found to be most convenient.

As shown, the receptacle essentially comprises two nesting vessels formed of thin, flexible or resilient sheet-like material such as vinyl plastic or like formulations, rubber, rubber-like substances, etc. The two vessels together constitute an elongate double-walled tubular body which is indicated generally by the numeral 20. The body 2% has a double-walled open end or mouth portion 22 which is adapted for engagement by the mouth 12 of the uterus, as shown in FIG. 1. The sides of the tubular body 20 may be considered as hollow, comprising spaced, thin inner and outer Walls 24 and 26 respectively. The thickness of the walls 24 and 26 is preferably somewhat greater than the wall thickness of a small rubber balloon,

being advantageously of the same order of magnitude as heavy paper or very light paper board.

The thin walls 24- and 25 essentially comprise discrete inner and outer vessels 2% and 30 of elongate tubular configuration with closed ends 32 and 34 respectively. The double-walled mouth 22 of the body 20 is thus seen to be formed by the sealing connection between the annular corresponding ends of the inner and outer vessels 28 and 30. The inner vessel 28 extends into the outer vessel 30 an appreciable distance which, for example, is much greater than the width of the inner vessel.

Further, the double-walled mouth 22 of the body 20 is flared outward as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, to adopt it for engagement and a close fit with the mouth 12 of the uterus or womb ltl. Also, such flare effects a retention of the receptacle device in the vaginal canal 14-, since it constitutes a somewhat firm yet soft and yielding enlargement having an interlocking relation with the surrounding tissue of the canal.

Referring now to FIG. 2, the outer vessel 30 at its closed end 34 is provided with a tubular extension 33 of reduced diameter, which may constitute a convenient handgrip and which is also adapted to mount a pneumatic fitting 4 9 by which air under pressure may be introduced 23 into the space between the vessels 2% and 3d, and between the walls 24 and 26 to inflate the receptacle or body 20 and give form to the same, substantially as seen in FIGS. 1-3. Prior to such inflation the body 2% is in a collapsed condition whereby it has but little girth, as will be understood.

The fitting 49 may be of any suitable type. For example, it may be somewhat like the small check valve as used in pneumatic tires except that its size is less and the parts preferably made of somewhat yieldable plastic substance. Or the fitting it? may be a soft rubber of soft plastic plug adapted to be pierced by a hypodermic needle attached to a syringe. The said needle and syringe may constitutes the inflating means, or other means, such as a metering or non-metering pressurized aerosol device may be used. As shown, the fitting 4G is carried at the tip of the extension 33, at which point the diameter of the extension is still further reduced.

As shown in FIG. 2, the portion of the extension just above the fitting 40 is hollow and has thin walls whereby it may be readily snipped through and severed, as by the use of a scissors, thereby to quickly and easily eflect deflation of the body 20. Deflation may also be effected by release or opening of the valve comprising the fitting 40, as will be understood.

In accordance with the invention there is provided within the outer walls 26 of the outer vessel 30 a relatively rigid elongate stiffening means which preferably extends within the hollow sides of the body 29 to provide a degree of stiffness thereto for the purpose of facilitating its insertion in the vaginal cavity. Preferably one end of such stiffening means extends into the extension 38 of the outer vessel 26 so as to be supported thereby and positioned for easy grasping by the fingers. The said stiffening means as illustrated in FIGS. 1-3 comprises a pair of slender resilient members 42 and 44 formed of a semi-rigid plastic substance or formulation such as polyethylene or the like. The members 42 and 44 may have various shapes; as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 the members comprise thin strips of appreciable width, having portions 46 and 48 which are slightly curved in transverse cross section.

The stilfening strips 42 and 44 are so arranged that one pair of corresponding end portions 50, 52 (those located in the extension 33) may be secured together to effect an assemblage of the strips whereby they do not become relatively displaced with respect to each other.

The space between the curved portions 46 and 48 of the strips 42 and 44 accommodates the inner vessel 28 as shown, and the latter is thus positioned to an extent with respect to the outer vessel 39. At those juncture points of the strips 42 and 4 which are located between the curved portions 46, 48 and the flat portions 50, 52 the strips readily bend whereby the curved portions may have a variable spacing. Thus, as the inner vessel collects more of the menstrual discharge and expands to its greatest possible diameter, the curved strip portions 46, 48 will spread apart, as may be understood. However, due to the relatively soft and yielding nature of the strips 42, 44 there is avoided any chafing or irritation of the surrounding tissues of the vaginal canal.

Another embodiment of the invenion is illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5. In this embodiment, parts which are generally similar to those already described have been given like numerals but with the suflix a.

The difference between the embodiment of FIGS. 4 and and that already described in connection with FIGS. 13 resides in the provision of anchorage means for securing against axial displacement the closed end portion of the inner vessel.

As shown, the inner vessel 23a is adhered to the stiffening members 420 and 44a by spots of adhesive 56 and 58. Also, the inner vessel 23a is adhered to the outer vessel Silo by additional spots of adhesive 60 arr 62. By such arrangement there is positively prevented any axial displacement or dislodgement of the closed end portion 32a of the inner vessel, especially at the times that the body Zila is deflated and withdrawn.

The operation and use of the receptacle device may now be understood. In its deflated condition the body fitl (or 29a) is inserted in the vaginal canal by grasping the extension portion of the outer vessel. After being fully inserted, the device is inflated, either with a hypodermic syringe or equivalent, an aerosol or other suitable means.

When properly positioned, the mouth 22 (or 22a) of the device will be engaged with the mouth 12 of the uterus. As discharge occurs it will be collected without appreciable leakage in the inner vessel 28 (or 2%). After a suitable interval of time, depending on con itions, the receptacle is deflated in the manner described above, and thereafter removed and disposed of. A replacement may be inserted, as required.

The device is seen to be simple, economical to fabricate, and easy to use. It safely intercepts and collects the menstrual discharge, and remains in place until deflated and intentionally removed. The device will cause a minimum of discomfort when in use, and due to the yieldable, inflated characteristic will not irritate or chare the adjoining parts. The double walls of which the body 20 (or 29a) is constituted provide added assurance against rupture under all conditions of use.

Variations and modifications may be made within the scope of the claims, and portions of the improvement may be used without others.

I claim:

1. An inflatable, flexible and resilient catamenial receptacle adapted to be inserted and retained in the vaginal cavity, comprising in combination:

(a) an elongate double-walled tubular body having an open mouth portion,

(b) the sides of said body being hollow and comprising spaced thin double walls,

(0) each of said thin walls comprising a vessel of elongate tubular configuration, each of said vessels having an end closure wall wholly comprising a reduceddiameter portion of the vessel,

(d) one vessel being disposed within the other, the inner vessel having a size sufiiciently large to store a proportionately large quantity of liquid discharge,

(e) one pair of corresponding annular ends of the vessels being joined in sealing relation to constitute the double-walled mouth of the body,

(7) the inner vessel extending into the outer vessel for a distance greater than its width and the end closure wall of the inner vessel being wholly within and enclosed by the outer wall, said end closure end being continuous so as to constitute a leak-proof closure,

(g) the double-walled mouth of the body having a permanent outward flare for engagement with the mouth of the womb and for the purpose of effecting a retention of the body in the vaginal passage,

(/1) a pneumatic fitting connected with the outer vessel,

through which air may be pumped into the body under pressure to inflate the same, said air tending to expand the flared mouth of the body and to separate the walls of the sides to increase the effective thickness of the latter,

(1') air check means at said fitting, for preventing egress of air from the outer vessel when the latter is inflated,

(j) anchorage means engaged with the inner vessel, preventing everting of the latter, said anchorage means being connected to the said outer vessel.

2. A device as in claim 1, wherein:

(a) the outer vessel at its end closure has a tubular extension of reduced diameter, constituting a hand grip,

(b) connector means are provided, extending from the said tubular extension to the inner vessel, to enable the latter to be pulled simultaneously with the outer vessel,

(c) said connector means being connected to both the inner vessel and the outer vessel.

3. A receptacle as in claim 2, wherein:

(a) the tubular extension communicates with the space between the walls of the vessels and may be readily snipped otf to exhaust air from said space and thereby deflate the receptacle.

A device as in claim 1, wherein:

(a) there is a relatively rigid elongate stiffening means connectedto both the inner and the outer vessel and extending within and separate from the hollow sides of the body and engaged therewith adjacent both ends of the body to provide a degree of stiflness to the body for the purpose of facilitating its insertion in the vaginal cavity.

5. A device as in claim 4, wherein:

(a) the outer vessel at its closed end has a tubular extension, and

(b) one end of the stiffening means extends into and is connected to the said extension to enable it to be readily grasped.

6. A device as in claim 5, wherein:

(a) the stiffening means comprises a pair of slender members extending on opposite sides of the inner vessel.

7. A device as in claim 6, wherein:

(a) the members of the stiflening means comprise thin strips of appreciable width, said strips having portions which are slightly curved in transverse cross section.

8. A device as in claim 7, wherein:

(a) the stiffening strips have one pair of corresponding end portions which are secured together and constitute the said one end of the stiffening means which is located in the extension of the outer vessel.

9. A device as in claim 8, wherein:

(a) the secured ends of the stiffening strips are of reduced cross-sectional size and of substantially flat construction.

10. A device as in claim 4, wherein:

(a) the closed end of the inner vessel is attached to the stiffening means to prevent axial displacement of said closed end.

11. An inflatable, flexible and resilient device adapted to be inserted and retained in the vaginal cavity, comprising in combination:

(a) an elongate double-walled tubular body having an open mouth portion,

(b) the sides of said body being hollow and comprising inner and outer spaced thin double walls,

(0) said thin walls comprising inner and outer vessels of elongate tubular configuration, the inner vessel having a closed end, and the other vessel having a reduced end (d) one vessel being disposed within the other,

(e) one pair of corresponding annular ends of the vessels being joined in sealing relation to constitute the double-walled mouth of the body,

(f) the inner vessel extending into the outer vessel for a distance greater than its width,

(g) the mouth of the body being flared outward for engagement with the mouth of the womb and for the purpose of effecting a retention of the body in the vaginal passage.

(h) and a pneumatic fitting connected with the outer vessel, through which air may be introduced into the body under pressure to inflate the same, said air tending to expand the flared mouth of the body and to separate the walls of the sides to increase the effective thickness of the latter,

(i) relatively rigid elongate stiflening means connected to both the inner and the outer vessel and extending within and separate from the hollow sides of the body and engaged therewith to provide a degree of stiffness to the body for the purpose of facilitating its insertion in the vaginal cavity,

(1') said outer vessel at its reduced end having a tubular extension with an air admitting passage therethrough,

(k) one end of said stiffening means extending into the said extension to enable it to be readily grasped,

(l) the tubular extension of the outer vessel being of reduced diameter and comprising a hollow stem,

(m) said pneumatic fitting being carried by the said stem.

12. An inflatable, flexible and resilient device adapted to be inserted and retained in the vaginal cavity, comprising in combination:

(a) an elongate double-walled tubular body having an open mouth portion,

(b) the sides of said body being hollow and comprising spaced thin double walls,

(0) each of said thin walls comprising a vessel of elongate tubular configuration with a closed end,

(d) one vessel being disposed within the other,

(e) one pair of corresponding annular ends of the vessels being joined in sealing relation to constitute the double-walled mouth of the body,

(f) the inner vessel extending into the outer vessel for a distance greater than its width,

(g) the mouth of the body being flared outward for engagement with the mouth of the womb and for the purpose of eflecting a retention of the body in the vaginal passage,

(11) and a pneumatic fitting connected with the outer vessel, through which air may be introduced into the body under pressure to inflate the same, said air tending to expand the flared mouth of the body and to separate the walls of the sides to increase the effective thickness of the latter,

(i) the closed end portion of the inner vessel being attached to the adjoining walls of the outer vessel to prevent relative axial displacement of the said end of the inner vessel.

References Cited by the Examiner UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,003,821 9/11 Svejnar 128-285 2,089,113 8/37 Chalmers 128285 2,487,630 11/49 Alvarez 128246 2,613,670 10/52 Sokolik 128-285 2,638,093 5/53 Kulick 128-344 2,943,625 7/60 Lotts 128-285 RICHARD A. GAUDET, Primary Examiner.

RICHARD J. HOFFMAN, Examiner. 

1. AN INFLATABLE, FLEXIBLE AND RESILIENT CATAMENIAL RECEPTACLE ADAPTED TO BE INSERTED AND RETAINED IN THE VAGINAL CAVITY, COMPRISING IN COMBINATION: (A) AN ELONGATE DOUBLE-WALLED TUBULAR BODY HAVING AN OPEN MOUTH PORTION, (B) THE SIDES OF SAID BODY BEING HOLLOW AND COMPRISING SPACED THIN DOUBLE WALLS, (C) EACH OF SAID THIN WALLS COMPRISING A VESSEL OF ELONGATE TUBULAR CONFIGURATION, EACH OF SAID VESSELS HAVING AN END CLOSURE WALL WHOLLY COMPRISING A REDUCEDDIAMETER PORTION OF THE VESSEL, (D) ONE VESSEL BEING DISPOSED WITHIN THE OTHER, THE INNER VESSEL HAVING A SIZE SUFFICIENTLY LARGE TO STORE A PROPORTIONATELY LARGE QUANTITY OF LIQUID DISCHARGE, (E) ONE PAIR OF CORRESPONDING ANNULAR ENDS OF THE VESSELS BEING JOINED IN SEALING RELATION TO CONSTITUTE THE DOUBLE-WALLED MOUTH OF THE BODY, (F) THE INNER VESSEL EXTENDING INTO THE OUTER VESSEL FOR A DISTANCE GREATER THAN ITS WIDTH AND THE END CLOSURE WALL OF THE INNER VESSEL BEING WHOLLY WITHIN AND ENCLOSED BY THE OUTER WALL, SAID END CLOSURE END BEING CONTINUOUS SO AS TO CONSTITUTE A LEAK-PROOF CLOSURE, (G) THE DOUBLE-WALLED MOUTH OF THE BODY HAVING A PERMANENT OUTWARD FLARE FOR ENGAGEMENT WITH THE MOUTH OF THE WOMB AND FOR THE PURPOSE OF EFFECTING A RETENTION OF THE BODY IN THE VAGINAL PASSAGE, (H) A PNEUMATIC FITTING CONNECTED WITH THE OUTER VESSEL, THROUGH WHICH AIR MAY BE PUMPED INTO THE BODY UNDER PRESSURE TO INFLATE THE SAME, SAID AIR TENDING TO EXPAND THE FLARED MOUTH OF THE BODY AND TO SEPARATE THE WALLS OF THE SIDES TO INCREASE THE EFFECTIVE THICKNESS OF THE LATTER, (I) AIR CHECK MEANS AT SAID FITTING, FOR PREVENTING EGRESS OF AIR FROM THE OUTER VESSEL WHEN THE LATTER IS INFLATED, (J) ANCHORAGE MEANS ENGAGED WITH THE INNER VESSEL, PREVENTING EVERTING OF THE LATTER, SAID ANCHORAGE MEANS BEING CONNECTED TO THE SAID OUTER VESSEL. 